TRV
Translation
King James Version
When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was good, he said unto Joseph, I also was in my dream, and, behold, I had three white baskets on my head:
Complete Jewish Bible
When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was favorable, he said to Yosef, "I too saw in my dream: there were three baskets of white bread on my head.
Berean Standard Bible
When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was favorable, he said to Joseph, “I too had a dream: There were three baskets of white bread on my head.
American Standard Version
When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was good, he said unto Joseph, I also was in my dream, and, behold, three baskets of white bread were on my head:
World English Bible Messianic
When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was good, he said to Joseph, “I also was in my dream, and behold, three baskets of white bread were on my head.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when the chiefe baker sawe that the interpretation was good, hee saide vnto Ioseph, Also mee thought in my dreame that I had three white baskets on mine head.
Young's Literal Translation
And the chief of the bakers seeth that he hath interpreted good, and he saith unto Joseph, `I also am in a dream, and lo, three baskets of white bread are on my head,
See also
See on the biblical-era map
In the KJVVerse 1,189 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on Genesis 40 verses 5–19
5 ¶ And they dreamed a dream both of them, each man his dream in one night, each man according to the interpretation of his dream, the butler and the baker of the king of Egypt, which were bound in the prison.
6 And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and looked upon them, and, behold, they were sad.
7 And he asked Pharaoh's officers that were with him in the ward of his lord's house, saying, Wherefore look ye so sadly to day?
8 And they said unto him, We have dreamed a dream, and there is no interpreter of it. And Joseph said unto them, Do not interpretations belong to God? tell me them, I pray you.
9 And the chief butler told his dream to Joseph, and said to him, In my dream, behold, a vine was before me;
10 And in the vine were three branches: and it was as though it budded, and her blossoms shot forth; and the clusters thereof brought forth ripe grapes:
11 And Pharaoh's cup was in my hand: and I took the grapes, and pressed them into Pharaoh's cup, and I gave the cup into Pharaoh's hand.
12 And Joseph said unto him, This is the interpretation of it: The three branches are three days:
13 Yet within three days shall Pharaoh lift up thine head, and restore thee unto thy place: and thou shalt deliver Pharaoh's cup into his hand, after the former manner when thou wast his butler.
14 But think on me when it shall be well with thee, and shew kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention of me unto Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house:
15 For indeed I was stolen away out of the land of the Hebrews: and here also have I done nothing that they should put me into the dungeon.
16 When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was good, he said unto Joseph, I also was in my dream, and, behold, I had three white baskets on my head:
17 And in the uppermost basket there was of all manner of bakemeats for Pharaoh; and the birds did eat them out of the basket upon my head.
18 And Joseph answered and said, This is the interpretation thereof: The three baskets are three days:
19 Yet within three days shall Pharaoh lift up thy head from off thee, and shall hang thee on a tree; and the birds shall eat thy flesh from off thee.
Observe, I. The special providence of God, which filled the heads of these two prisoners with unusual dreams, such as made extraordinary impressions upon them, and carried with them evidences of a divine origin, both in one night. Note, God has immediate access to the spirits of men, which he can make serviceable to his own purposes whenever he pleases, quite beyond the intention of those concerned. To him all hearts are open, and anciently he spoke not only to his own people, but to others, in dreams, Job 33:15. Things to come were thus foretold, but very obscurely.
II. The impression which was made upon these prisoners by their dreams (Gen 40:6): They were sad. It was not the prison that made them sad (they were pretty well used to that, and perhaps lived jovially there), but the dream. Note, God has more ways than one to sadden the spirits of those that are to be made sad. Those sinners that are hardy enough under outward troubles, and will not yield to them, yet God can find out a way to punish; he can take off their wheels, by wounding their spirits, and laying loads upon them.
III. Joseph's great tenderness and compassion towards them. He enquired with concern, Wherefore look you so sadly today? Gen 40:7. Joseph was their keeper, and in that office he was mild. Note, It becomes us to take cognizance of the sorrows even of those that are under our check. Joseph was their companion in tribulation, he was now a prisoner with them, and had been a dreamer too. Note, Communion in sufferings helps to work compassion towards those that do suffer. Let us learn hence, 1. To concern ourselves in the sorrows and troubles of others, and to enquire into the reason of the sadness of our brethren's countenances; we should be often considering the tears of the oppressed, Ecc 4:1. It is some relief to those that are in trouble to be taken notice of. 2. To enquire into the causes of our own sorrow, "Wherefore do I look so sadly? Is there a reason? Is it a good reason? Is there not a reason for comfort sufficient to balance it, whatever it is? Why art thou cast down, O my soul?"
IV. The dreams themselves, and the interpretation of them. That which troubled these prisoners was that being confined they could not have recourse to the diviners of Egypt who pretended to interpret dreams: There is no interpreter here in the prison, Gen 40:8. Note, There are interpreters which those that are in prison and sorrow should wish to have with them, to instruct them in the meaning and design of Providence (Elihu alludes to such, when he says, If there be an interpreter, one among a thousand, to show unto man his uprightness, Job 33:23, Job 33:24), interpreters to guide their consciences, not to satisfy their curiosity. Joseph hereupon directed them which way to look: Do not interpretations belong to God? He means the God whom he worshipped, to the knowledge of whom he endeavours hereby to lead them. Note, It is God's prerogative to foretel things to come, Isa 46:10. He must therefore have the praise of all the gifts of foresight which men have, ordinary or extraordinary. Joseph premises a caveat against his own praise, and is careful to transmit the glory to God, as Daniel, Dan 2:30. Joseph suggests, "If interpretations belong to God, he is a free agent, and may communicate the power to whom he pleases, and therefore tell me your dreams." Now, 1. The chief butler's dream was a happy presage of his enlargement, and re-advancement, within three days; and so Joseph explained it to him, Gen 40:12, Gen 40:13. Probably it had been usual with him to press the full-ripe grapes immediately into Pharaoh's cup, the simplicity of that age not being acquainted with the modern arts of making the wine fine. Observe, Joseph foretold the chief butler's deliverance, but he did not foresee his own. He had long before dreamt of his own honour, and the obeisance which his brethren should do to him, with the remembrance of which he must now support himself, without any new or fresh discoveries. The visions that are for the comfort of God's saints are for a great while to come, and relate to things that are very far off, while the foresights of others, like this recorded there, look but three days before them. 2. The chief baker's dream portended his ignominious death, Gen 40:18, Gen 40:19. The happy interpretation of the other's dream encouraged him to relate his. Thus hypocrites, when they hear good things promised to good Christians, would put in for a share, though they have no part nor lot in the matter. It was not Joseph's fault that he brought him no better tidings. Ministers are but interpreters, they cannot make the thing otherwise than it is; if therefore they deal faithfully, and their message prove unpleasing, it is not their fault. Bad dreams cannot expect a good interpretation.
V. The improvement Joseph made of this opportunity to get a friend at court, Gen 40:14, Gen 40:15. He modestly bespoke the favour of the chief butler, whose preferment he foretold: But think of me when it shall be well with thee. Though the respect paid to Joseph made the prison as easy to him as a prison could be, yet none can blame him for being desirous of liberty. See here, 1. What a modest representation he makes of his own case, Gen 40:15. He does not reflect upon his brethren that sold him; he only says, I was stolen out of the land of the Hebrews, that is, unjustly sent thence, no matter where the fault was. Nor does he reflect on the wrong done him in this imprisonment by his mistress that was his prosecutrix, and his master that was his judge; but mildly avers his own innocence: Here have I done nothing that they should put me into the dungeon. Note, When we are called to vindicate ourselves we should carefully avoid, as much as may be, speaking ill of others. Let us be content to prove ourselves innocent, and not be fond of upbraiding others with their guilt. 2. What a modest request he makes to the chief butler: "Only, think of me. Pray do me a kindness, if it lie in your way." And his particular petition is, Bring me out of this house. He does not say, "Bring me into Pharaoh's house, get me a place at court." No, he begs for enlargement, not preferment. Note, Providence sometimes designs the greatest honours for those that least covet or expect them.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 5–19. Public domain.
Copy as
JeromeAD 420
Hebrew Questions on Genesis
(Verse 16.) And it seemed to me that I was carrying three baskets of wheat on my head. For the three baskets of wheat, he has three measures of flour in Hebrew.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
Copy as
Continue studying Genesis 40:16 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
SefariaThe Hebrew text with Rashi and centuries of Jewish commentary.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
SUMMARY
Genesis 40:16 captures the chief baker's immediate and hopeful reaction to Joseph, prompted by the favorable interpretation of the chief butler's dream. Believing that good news for one might portend good news for all, the baker eagerly steps forward to recount his own dream, detailing three white baskets on his head. This pivotal moment sets the stage for Joseph to deliver a divinely revealed interpretation that starkly contrasts with the butler's, unveiling a tragic fate for the baker and further demonstrating God's sovereign hand in Joseph's life.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is deeply embedded within the narrative of Joseph's unjust imprisonment in Egypt, following his betrayal by his brothers and false accusation by Potiphar's wife, as recounted in Genesis 39:20. While serving as an overseer in Pharaoh's prison, Joseph encounters two of Pharaoh's high-ranking officials—the chief butler and the chief baker—who have both been incarcerated. On a single night, both men experience vivid, troubling dreams. Joseph, recognizing that the ability to interpret dreams is a divine gift, as he states in Genesis 40:8, offers to interpret their dreams. Immediately preceding this verse, Joseph has just delivered a profoundly positive interpretation to the chief butler, promising his restoration to Pharaoh's service within three days, a prophecy that will soon be fulfilled (Genesis 40:13). The chief baker, having witnessed this encouraging outcome, is then emboldened to present his own dream, undoubtedly hoping for a similar, liberating interpretation.
Historical & Cultural Context: Dreams held significant weight in ancient Near Eastern cultures, particularly in Egypt, where they were often considered direct messages from deities or omens of future events. Pharaohs and other rulers frequently employed dream interpreters or wise men to discern the meaning of such visions, as seen later with Pharaoh's own dreams in Genesis 41. The roles of chief butler and chief baker were positions of immense trust and proximity to the Pharaoh, indicating their high status and the severe nature of their offense that led to imprisonment. The specific imagery within dreams, such as baskets of bread, would have been immediately recognizable within the context of Egyptian daily life and the baker's profession. The practice of carrying goods on one's head was, and still is, common in the region, adding a layer of realism to the dream's imagery.
Key Themes: This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the theme of Divine Sovereignty, demonstrating how God orchestrates seemingly random events—like the dreams of two prisoners—to advance His larger purposes, ultimately leading to Joseph's elevation and the salvation of many, as seen in Genesis 50:20. The narrative also underscores God's Providence, revealing His active involvement in the lives of individuals, even in dire circumstances such as imprisonment. Furthermore, Joseph's consistent ability to interpret dreams, attributing the gift to God, reinforces the theme of Prophetic Revelation, showcasing God's chosen vessels for communicating His will and future plans, a gift that will be crucial for Joseph's eventual role in saving Egypt and his family from famine (Genesis 41:38-40).
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Genesis 40:16 employs several potent literary devices. Foreshadowing is evident in the chief baker's hopeful yet ultimately misguided assumption that his dream will have a "good" interpretation, mirroring the butler's. This sets up the dramatic contrast with Joseph's subsequent, grim prophecy, building narrative tension. Irony is powerfully present; the baker's eagerness, born from observing a favorable outcome, leads him directly to a revelation of his own tragic demise. His hope for release ironically seals his fate. Furthermore, Symbolism is central to the dream itself. The "three white baskets" are not merely literal objects but represent the baker's profession, his livelihood, and the very means of his undoing. The number "three" carries symbolic weight, often signifying a short, defined period, which in this case points to the three days until his execution.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The chief baker's eager approach in Genesis 40:16, driven by a desire for a favorable outcome, serves as a poignant illustration of universal human hope and desperation in the face of adversity, often influenced by the perceived good fortune of others. However, the subsequent unfolding of events underscores a profound theological truth: God's sovereign plan often encompasses both deliverance and judgment, and He uses all circumstances, even the seemingly mundane or tragic, to advance His divine purposes. This interaction further demonstrates Joseph's God-given prophetic gift, which is not merely for personal gain but serves as a conduit for God's revelation, setting the stage for Joseph's eventual elevation and the salvation of many. The narrative powerfully reminds us that God is actively involved in human affairs, orchestrating events behind the scenes to fulfill His promises and bring about His ultimate will, often in ways that defy human expectation or understanding.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 40:16 offers a profound opportunity for reflection on our own responses to life's uncertainties and the perceived fortunes of others. The chief baker's eagerness, born from observing the chief butler's good news, speaks to a deeply human tendency to project our hopes onto external circumstances, believing that if good comes to one, it must come to all. Yet, God's plan is uniquely tailored, and His purposes are often far grander and more complex than our immediate desires. This narrative challenges us to cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereign hand, even when our circumstances do not immediately align with our hopes or when we witness outcomes that differ from our expectations. It calls us to recognize that God uses every event—joyful and sorrowful, expected and unexpected—to weave together His perfect tapestry, advancing His kingdom and shaping our character. Our task is not to dictate the outcome, but to remain faithful and discerning, trusting that His wisdom prevails, and His timing is perfect, ultimately working all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was the chief baker so eager to share his dream after the chief butler's interpretation?
Answer: The chief baker's eagerness stemmed from observing Joseph provide a highly favorable interpretation to the chief butler, promising his swift restoration to Pharaoh's service within three days (Genesis 40:13). Being imprisoned himself and desperate for release, the baker was instilled with hope that his own dream would also yield a positive outcome, mirroring the butler's good fortune. He likely assumed that Joseph's gift meant good news for all who sought his interpretation.
What is the significance of "three white baskets" in the dream?
Answer: The "three white baskets" hold significant symbolic meaning directly related to the chief baker's profession and his impending fate. The number "three" often signifies a short, defined period, which in this context will tragically point to the three days until his execution (Genesis 40:19). The "white baskets" (Hebrew: chôrîy çallîm) likely refer to baskets containing fine, white bread or pastries, directly connecting to his role as a baker. The detail of the baskets being "on my head" represents a burden or responsibility, but in the dream's grim interpretation, it foreshadows his public execution where birds would eat the contents of the baskets, and ultimately, his flesh (Genesis 40:19). These specific details are crucial for Joseph's divinely inspired interpretation, transforming seemingly innocuous imagery into a clear message of judgment.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Joseph in prison, particularly the contrasting fates of the chief butler and chief baker, profoundly foreshadows the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Joseph, though innocent, suffers unjustly and is "imprisoned" by circumstances, yet through his suffering and God-given wisdom, he ultimately becomes the means of salvation for a multitude, first for Pharaoh's household and later for his own family and all of Egypt. This mirrors Christ, who, though sinless, willingly endured suffering and death on the cross (Isaiah 53:5), becoming "imprisoned" by the tomb. Yet, through His resurrection, He was supremely exalted by God (Philippians 2:8-9) and became the sole source of eternal salvation for all who believe (Hebrews 5:9). The two distinct outcomes for the butler (restoration to life and favor) and the baker (condemnation and death) serve as a powerful type of the two ultimate destinies presented by the gospel of Christ: eternal life for those who receive and believe in Him, and eternal condemnation for those who reject Him (John 5:24; John 3:18). In this way, even the seemingly minor details of Joseph's story, orchestrated by divine providence, point to the greater work of the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).